As the 20 living hostages were released from Gaza today, a number of global leaders have welcomed the news. Many described feelings of relief and joy, though a majority also highlighted the importance of continuing to work towards peace in the region.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said that the release of the hostages is a “moment of profound relief,” extending his country’s gratitude to those who helped secure it, including US President Donald Trump. Today’s events “must be a turning point toward lasting peace,” Carney said.
The efforts towards peace in the region bring “hope for peace in other regions where life is still under threat,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on X. “In Ukraine, we welcome all the efforts that have led to today’s outcome for the Middle East,” adding that “we are working so that the day of peace comes for Ukraine as well.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer wrote on X that he felt “deep relief” at the release of the hostages, adding that it was a “stark reminder” of their treatment by Hamas and the “atrocities” of the militant group’s October 7 attacks. “It is now crucial that we work together to implement President Trump’s peace plan for Gaza,” he said.
France’s President Emmanuel Macron said on X that he shared “the joy” of the families of the hostages and the Israeli people, adding that “France will be involved in every stage of President Trump’s plan, alongside the Arab partners it helped mobilize.”
“President (Trump) has done it again!” Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said on the social media platform, calling the hostage release a “tremendous achievement.” The US leader “made it happen” Orbán said, adding that, if certain conditions are met, he can “get it done in Ukraine as well.”
The leaders of countries including Austria, Colombia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Latvia, Moldova, the Netherlands and Sweden also welcomed today’s events.